Medical information for the Christmas period

Health bosses have issued advice over what to do if you are ill over Christmas.

Some services will still be open over the festive holiday - even on Christmas Day.

The walk-in centre on Whitegate Drive, Blackpool is open 8am to 8pm every day - including Christmas Day and Bank Holidays - for those who need to see a doctor or nurse.

For those suffering toothache or dental problems, the dental access helpline will be available - call (01253) 655200.

For urgent but not emergency or life-threatening help, the new NHS 111 number is now in operation. NHS Direct can also give advice, by calling 0845 4647 or logging onto www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

A spokesman for NHS North Lancashire said: “Accident and Emergency departments provide immediate emergency care for people who show the symptoms of serious illness or are badly injured. Of all NHS services, A&E or 999 should only be used in a critical or life-threatening situation.

“Your local pharmacist can provide advice on common illnesses and the best medicines to treat them.”